How to Cut Pears

Sommer Leigh

A cut pear on a wooden table.
(Image: David Pimborough/iStock/Getty Images)

Slice a pear however you like it, based on your recipe or fresh eating preference. While there is not necessarily a right or wrong way to cut pears, there are techniques you can use to make it simpler to get the most fruit. You want to remove only the core so you have all of the flesh left. Once it's just the flesh leftover, you can slice it or dice it whatever way you like.

Step 1

Wash the pears under running cold water.

Step 2

Set the washed pears on top of a cutting board.

Step 3

Cut each pear lengthwise in half with a sharp, clean knife.

Step 4

Place a melon baller on top of the core and push it into the core to scoop it out.

Step 5

Throw away the core.

Step 6

Cut away any brown spots or overly soft spots with the knife.

Step 7

Cut the pear halves into quarters or smaller slices as you prefer.

Things You'll Need

Cutting board

Knife

Melon baller

Tip

Brush pear slices with a solution of half water and half lemon juice to prevent browning.

Do not worry about removing the skin, unless you prefer it, or you plan to can the pears.